The hip joint is one of the largest in the human musculoskeletal system. It is a spherical joint and is located at the base of the lower limb, being the most mobile part in it. Its main function is to make a structural and functional connection between the axial skeleton and the lower limb. As it is a zone of transmission of forces, it is also often vulnerable and easily injured. Due to the mainly supporting function of the lower limbs, the hip joint is also adapted to greater stability. However, however, it is often prone to wear and more. The movements in the joint are supported and synchronized with the movements of the pelvis. Its function is strongly dependent on the correct structural and anatomical arrangement not only of its constituent components, but also of its neighboring structures. This creates serious preconditions for the occurrence of muscle imbalance and microtrauma. Like any other joint, it can be damaged by acute trauma, including injuries from falls and contact sports. Often such an old trauma in combination with muscle imbalance, chronic overload or improper workload and sports activities can lead to trochanteric bursitis, which can lead to muscle imbalance and microtrauma. Like any other joint, it can be damaged by acute trauma, including injuries from falls and contact sports.
Nature of trochanteric bursitis
Trochanteric bursitis occurs in all age groups, but most often affects elderly women. Its occurrence is associated with trauma to the great trochanter, caused by constant and repetitive movements. It is characterized by pain in the outer part of the hip joint and down from it on the lateral surface of the thigh to the knee. Patients complain of pain and discomfort during prolonged standing, and walking and climbing stairs aggravate the symptoms. Muscle imbalance and impaired elasticity are predisposing factors for bursa irritation. Inflammation of the periarticular sac leads to an increased amount of fluid, which increases the pressure inside it, tightens its walls and irritates the tissues in the area, causing pain when moving. Immobility, overweight and osteoporosis further complicate the picture in many cases. Not to mention that joint pathologies, limited mobility and muscle weakness in this area can disrupt balance and postural control.
Diagnosis and treatment of trochanteric bursitis
The diagnosis is made after examination by an orthopedist, with a detailed history, examination and palpation in the area of complaints. Pain is usually found in the trochanter. At the physician’s discretion, radiography may be ordered to detect bone lesions or magnetic resonance imaging, which is highly informative of soft tissues and is an important test for accurate diagnosis.
Treatment consists of taking anti-inflammatory corticosteroids, physiotherapy and kinesitherapy. Important for prevention and treatment is the construction and implementation of an individual set of therapeutic exercises / can be built by a physiotherapist /, which aims to better align the joints and would prevent future problems in the musculoskeletal system. Patients also need to understand that the hip joints cannot be examined and trained in isolation from the lumbar spine, as they are functionally related units. Persistence, patience and understanding of the nature of the problem are key to tackling it.
